Digidesign has identified a potential problem with some aluminum PowerBook G4 models that may not provide sufficient power from one or both of the built-in USB ports to establish or maintain communication with the Mbox 2. I n particular, the 15" PowerBook G4 Model M8981LL/A and 15" PowerBook G4 Model M8980LL/A (both manufactured in September 2003) are prone to this problem.

Digidesign has posted a beta firmware update for the MBox2 which may alleviate this problem. This update can be downloaded at www.digidesign.com It will be included with PTLE 7 installer CDs (in the Additional Files folder) as well.

Prior to the availability of this firmware update, Digidesign found that the following power USB hubs helped the MBox2 work on these PowerBook models.

* Belkin 7 Port USB Hub F5U027
* Generic Jaton USB 1.0 4-Port Hub
* Linksys USB 2.0 ProConnect Hub

For more information, including recommended powered USB hubs, please see "Mbox 2 Compatibility Information with PowerBook G4" at www.digidesign.com